Government / Health Government commissions study that could narrow brodifacoum buffer rules for deer hunting The research aims to test whether the current 2km, three-year exclusion around poison bait stations can be better targeted without compromising food safety or export assurances.
Government / Economics Government eases aquaculture consenting rules; councils to apply changes now The updated national standards cut red tape for marine farmers to refine operations and run trials, with ministers saying environmental safeguards remain in place.
Government / New Zealand Government to scrap Broadcasting Standards Authority, shift complaints to industry self-regulation The BSA will be disestablished under legislation to be drafted in coming months, with the Media Council expected to become the main complaints body for journalism while the Authority continues until the law changes.
Health / Government Brown appoints three to Health Research Council board, keeps Levy as chair Dr Margaret Whilsher, Dr Colin McArthur and Paul Foster-Bell join the HRC for three-year terms, with Professor Lester Levy and Jeroen Douwes reappointed to lead the board amid wider science sector reforms.
Health / Government Central Lakes health services set to expand, with local MRI and a new maternity model signalled The Government has backed a Health NZ plan to bring more care closer to home in Wānaka, Cromwell and Queenstown, with upgrades starting next year and major operating funding kicking in from 2027.
Government / New Zealand Awaiting details on Department of Internal Affairs 6 April release We’ve asked the department for the full statement so we can report what has been announced and who it affects.
Government / New Zealand Wider intertidal shellfish curbs proposed for Auckland and Coromandel; consultation opens The Government is seeking feedback on options including area closures and tighter rules on rockpool and shoreline gathering, following a two-year ban now in place in the northern Hauraki Gulf.
Testing / Government Government to introduce in-person citizenship test from late 2027 with 75% pass mark Applicants for citizenship by grant will have to pass a multiple-choice test on rights, law and how government works, replacing today’s signed declaration.
New Zealand / Government Two more firms held to account over forestry road failures that killed Coromandel driver Greg Stevens WorkSafe extends action in the case as Stevens’ widow urges the industry to make haul roads safe.
Health / Government Government funds youth crisis respite in Northland after coroner’s findings The Minister for Mental Health has directed new money and roles into Northland, establishing a youth acute respite service and adding three prevention coordinators after a coroner’s report into six deaths.
Government / World Fuel security at centre of Luxon’s Singapore visit as essential supplies pact signed The Government says a new agreement with Singapore will help keep fuel and food flowing, after talks with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and industry leaders on Jurong Island.
Government / New Zealand Auto-electrical apprentice-turned-dealership boss joins Tertiary Education Commission board The Government has appointed Michelle Findlater for a three-year term as TEC leans further into work-based learning and industry needs.
